OVER $35,000 IN COMMUNITY GRANTS APPROVED FOR LA RONGE

Three La Ronge community-based organizations have received a total of $35,544 through the Community Initiatives Fund. These grants are part of the 65 recently approved projects in 41 communities across the province that will receive a total of over $625,000.

Northern Affairs Minister Joan Beatty presented the grants on behalf of Culture, Youth and Recreation Minister Glenn Hagel during a brief ceremony today.

"The projects receiving Community Initiatives Fund grants reflect some of the needs of the north, in particular the needs of northern youth." Minister Beatty said.

The funding will be used to support traditional cultural initiatives and sport and skill development.

Groups receiving funds include:
•Athabasca Regional Recreation Association- $15,000;
•Gordon Denny Community School - $7,044; and,
•Sagastew Regional Recreation Association - $13,500.

The Community Initiatives Fund was designed to be responsive to community-identified needs. Grant decisions are made at arm's length by a board of trustees based on advice from regional committees. Committees include representatives from agencies and community organizations involved in human service delivery.

The Community Initiatives Fund was established in 1996 to provide tangible benefits from Saskatchewan Gaming Corporation profits for Saskatchewan communities. Since its inception, more than $60 million has been distributed to community programs across Saskatchewan.

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For More Information, Contact:

Richard Fink Culture, Youth and Recreation Regina Phone: (306) 787-5781